Being your own client often means being your toughest critic, but for Aditi Kalbhor and Vivek Ondkar of Dream Space Design Studio, a clear vision for their Pune office made the process seamless. Their shared affinity for Mid-Century and English Contemporary styles guided the design of their 232-square-foot studio in Pune. “It’s a fusion of timelessness and modernity. We love how each theme creates a unique spatial experience and evokes distinct emotions. These design elements have always captivated us during our travels and as we experience spaces,” the designers share. What truly inspired them were the clean lines, functional furniture, and minimal ornamentation characteristic of these styles, resulting in a space that reflects their design philosophy.
The curved wooden panel at the entryway sets the tone for "Dream Space," proudly showcasing the branding in all its glory. The welcoming ambience is heightened by the harmonious combination of natural wood and the minimalist logo, thoughtfully paired with a low ledge emphasising the natural material palette. Interestingly, this accent wall discreetly conceals a toilet tucked behind it. The seamless continuity of the vertical wood panelling renders the concealed door nearly invisible, adding an element of surprise that rewards a closer look.
To seamlessly accommodate the studio's diverse functions within a rectangular space, dummy walls were incorporated to define distinct activity zones. The cabin, doubling as a conference room, serves as a collaborative hub where designers gather to brainstorm and unleash their creativity. A striking feature of this space is the tall, open shelves with arched tops, which blend traditional English design with modern functionality. Brass accents on the shelves and handles lend an air of sophistication, elevating the overall aesthetic. The design draws inspiration from English Contemporary style, characterized by traditional elements like arched shelving, intricate mouldings, and the rich texture of wood, all softened by a neutral color palette.
All the furniture is custom-crafted in-house, with several pieces featuring natural rattan inlays framed in wood, adding warmth and texture to the space. Above the sleek, black work desk, a custom-made refined chandelier with cylindrical white shades and brass frames casts warm, diffused light, perfectly complementing the design's timeless elegance.
The lounge, designed for informal discussions and breaks, is set against a striking black-framed partition adorned with elegant arched motifs that gracefully separate it from the main workspace. A highlighted ceiling cornice, painted in a darker shade than the walls, serves a dual purpose—first, as an experiment with bold design elements, and second, as a demonstration to clients of how such features can elevate a space.
The pantry features a sleek kitchenette with natural wood cabinetry and a marble backsplash, creating a dedicated refreshment zone. Brass hardware and a seamless, integrated design ensure it blends harmoniously with the overall aesthetic.
This Pune office effortlessly combines mid-century modern and English contemporary influences, creating a harmonious and timeless atmosphere. The thoughtful use of wood, rattan, brass, and light-toned walls establishes a cohesive foundation that strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. "This studio reflects a meticulously designed environment that places equal emphasis on productivity, creativity, and comfort," say the designers.
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